Spring-Actuated Towing Hitch with Retractable Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing towing devices for coupling mobile trolleys or wagons are prone to unwanted vertical movements and detachment when driving over bumps, and the hitch mechanism is unreliable and space-inefficient when not in use.
Innovation Solution
A hitch system with a first part attachable to a truck and a second part that is movable between retracted and extended positions, secured by a holding device with a movable safety mechanism that automatically engages and disengages using spring force, allowing for reliable and space-saving attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a coupling device is used to connect trolleys, then the trolleys can be coupled together to form a train, but the coupling device undergoes undesirable vertical movements and can become detached when driving over uneven ground
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device incorporates a spring element that allows dynamic adjustment and absorption of vertical movements when driving over uneven ground, preventing detachment while maintaining reliable coupling between trolleys
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element is pre-loaded to provide cushioning force that compensates for vertical shocks and movements before they can cause detachment, ensuring stable coupling under varying road conditions
2Adaptability or versatility
If the towing device is attached to the front of the car via a joint, then the car can be towed, but the device has to be folded up and secured when not in use, taking up space outside the car
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is designed to be received and stored within a receiving device that is integrated into the vehicle body, eliminating the need for external storage and keeping the system compact when towing is not required
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is used to secure the second part in the extended position, then the second part can be held securely under longitudinal compressive forces, but the locking mechanism can only unreliably secure the second part and provides no defined movement for releasing
Solution Approach 1:
The release element is designed to be actuated by the user's foot, allowing automatic engagement through spring force while providing simple, defined manual operation for release without requiring complex mechanisms or tools
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides a reliable and easy-to-operate solution for securing the second part in the extended position while allowing for simple and space-efficient storage, with enhanced safety and ease of use during coupling and decoupling.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element (56) arranged to store a force in a compressed state and to release the force in order to actuate the locking mechanism (7)
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a trailer attachment device for fixing to a wagon, comprising a first part which can be connected to the wagon and a second part which can be fixed to a further wagon, wherein the second part is displaceable relative to the first part between a first retracted position and a second extended position, and wherein a holding device is arranged which is designed to hold the second part in the second position, wherein a movable locking device is arranged which is designed to releasably secure the holding device, so that when longitudinal compressive forces act on the second part, the second part is held in the second position.